The former second-round pick is expected to become the Ravens’ latest free agent to head west, following Greg Roman.
Former Baltimore Ravens running back J.K. Dobbins, who has been on the open market for a little over a month, will become the team’s 14th free agent to sign elsewhere, and the third to return. According to NFL Network’s Tom Peliserro, the former second-round pick out of Ohio State in 2020 plans to sign a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Chargers.
When Dobbins signs the contract, he will become the latest former teammate to return with former offensive coordinator Greg Roman, joining six-year veterans Gus Edwards, Hayden Hurst, and Bradley Bozeman, as well as 2021 fifth-round fullback Ben Mason. He will also transition from John Harbaugh as head coach to his younger brother, Jim, who was hired this offseason alongside former Ravens Director of Player Personnel Joe Hortiz, who was part of the front staff that chose him and is now the Chargers’ new general manager.
Former #Ravens RB J.K. Dobbins is planning to sign with the #Chargers on a one-year deal, per his agency @LAASportsEnt.
Electric when healthy, Dobbins — who averages 5.8 yards per carry in his career — reunites with OC Greg Roman and can hit the market again in March. pic.twitter.com/HZB24ryhi0
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) April 17, 2024
As a rookie in 2020, Dobbins had the best season of his career, leading all running backs with six yards per carry, 805 rushing yards, and nine touchdowns, setting the franchise rookie record. Following his tremendously hot start, injuries ended two of his following three seasons and significantly affected the other.
In Los Angeles, he will have the opportunity to start again in a new but familiar setting, playing in a scheme and under a coach with whom he thrived and averaged 5.7 yards or more. The Chargers released explosive sturdy veteran Austin Ekeler last offseason, so Dobbins and Gus Edwards will lead the charge in their backfield this fall and will have the opportunity to face the Ravens in So-Fi Stadium at some time during the 2024 season.
Derrick Henry, a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time league rushing champion, will take over as Baltimore’s main back after Dobbins and Edwards were released. The Ravens signed Henry to a two-year contract worth up to $20 million during the first wave of free agency. Since becoming a full-time starter in 2018, the eight-year veteran has shown to be one of the most durable and effective players at his position.
